Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives is a dish that dances on your taste buds like a Mediterranean festival. Imagine tender, flaky cod fillets bathed in a fragrant blend of olives, tomatoes, and herbs, filling your kitchen with an aroma that could make even the most determined dieter swoon. This dish not only tickles your senses but also brings a burst of sunshine to your dinner table. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
As you prepare to dive into this culinary adventure, picture yourself sitting on a sun-soaked terrace overlooking the shimmering sea, with each bite transporting you to that idyllic setting. Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives is ideal for cozy family dinners or impressing friends at weekend gatherings. Trust me; this flavor experience will make everyone ask for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of savory and bright notes that excite the palate
- Its stunning presentation with vibrant colors makes it a feast for the eyes as well
- Versatile enough to serve with rice, pasta, or crusty bread, it’s adaptable for any occasion!
I still remember the first time I made this Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! Their delighted expressions were priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cod Fillets: Opt for high-quality cod for the best flavor and texture; fresh is always better than frozen.
Black Olives: Choose pitted black olives for convenience; their rich flavor complements the cod beautifully.
Cherry Tomatoes: Use sweet cherry tomatoes; they burst with flavor and add a lovely pop of color.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is essential for that aromatic punch; don’t skimp!
Dried Oregano: This herb brings a quintessential Mediterranean vibe; ensure it’s fresh for maximum impact.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the entire dish; bottled just won’t do!
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors; drizzle generously.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab an oven-safe baking dish and lightly coat it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, toss together halved cherry tomatoes, pitted black olives, minced garlic cloves, dried oregano, and a splash of olive oil. The aromas will make your mouth water!
Step 3: Place the fresh cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over them and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Spoon the tomato-olive mixture generously over the cod fillets. Ensure every inch is covered because we want maximum flavor infusion.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and looks beautifully golden on top.
Step 6: Once done, remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnishing with extra lemon wedges makes it even more inviting!
And there you have it! A delightful Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives ready to steal the show at dinner! Enjoy each bite knowing you’ve created something truly special that everyone will love!
You Must Know
- Mediterranean Baked Cod with Olives creates a delightful flavor explosion
- Fresh ingredients and vibrant colors make it a feast for the senses, while the aroma of herbs and spices wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the cod first, then prepare your olives and veggies while the fish absorbs those mouthwatering flavors. Finally, bake everything together for a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out olives for capers or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch. Experimenting can elevate this dish into something uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain that delightful flaky texture of the cod.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To get the most out of your Mediterranean Baked Cod with Olives, ensure you’re using fresh ingredients for maximum flavor impact
- Marinating overnight intensifies the taste, so don’t rush it!
- Always check if your cod is sustainably sourced for better quality and flavor
Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air as we devoured this delicious meal together.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod for Mediterranean Baked Cod with Olives?
Yes, just ensure it’s thawed completely before marinating and baking.
What type of olives work best in this recipe?
Kalamata or green olives are excellent choices, adding rich flavor and texture.
How do I know when my cod is fully cooked?
The cod should flake easily with a fork when cooked through, typically around 15-20 minutes at 400°F.
Mediterranean Baked Cod with Olives
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mediterranean Baked Cod with Olives is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. Tender cod fillets are topped with a delicious medley of pitted black olives, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, all baked to perfection. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at gatherings. Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup pitted black olives
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly coat a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, black olives, minced garlic, oregano, and olive oil.
- Place cod fillets in the baking dish; squeeze lemon juice over them and season with salt and pepper.
- Top cod with the tomato-olive mixture.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is golden on top.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving; garnish with lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Marinate cod for an hour before cooking for enhanced flavor. Feel free to substitute black olives with Kalamata or add capers for an extra punch.
